Yesterday, Microsoft released the preview version of Windows 8.1. I've now been using it for almost 24 hours on my main desktop PC with two monitors (neither of them touchscreens), and I can safely say that Windows 8.1 drastically improves the experience for mouse-and-keyboard users, and users who do most of their work on the Desktop. SkyDrive integration is awesome, the Start button -- despite the lack of Start menu -- is surprisingly functional, and improved split-screening means Desktop users can now actually use Metro apps without being forced into full-screen mode.